The Sydney Opera House (SOH) has revealed it has signed a 10-year agreement with Applejack Hospitality, to run its harbourside venues, Opera Bar and House Canteen.
The deal comes after what the SOH team said was a “highly competitive tender process” and also ends Solotel’s 24-year tenure as the operator of the two venues.
Applejack’s proposal for the venues included showcasing “Sydney’s cultural food scene at Opera Bar and a relaxed all-day café at House Canteen”. According to the SOH Applejack’s proposal “demonstrated exceptional value for the Opera House”.
Sydney Opera House Chief Customer Officer, Jade McKellar said: “We’re thrilled to have appointed Applejack to run the Opera House’s popular harbourside venues, Opera Bar and House Canteen, for the next 10 years.
“We were delighted by the exceptional standard of the submissions received, with Applejack’s detailing a compelling, vibrant vision for this community space that thousands of locals and visitors enjoy every year.
“There’s nothing quite like the Opera House, and I’m looking forward to working with Applejack to make the most of this tremendous opportunity.”
McKellar also thanked the existing operator, Solotel, Matt Moran and General Manager John Gallas, for their outstanding contribution over 24 memorable years.
“The Solotel team has been instrumental to the success of these iconic Sydney venues, creating unforgettable experiences for locals and tourists over decades and contributing to the vitality of Sydney’s hospitality scene,” she said. “
We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve delivered together over this long-standing partnership. We thank them for their significant contribution and acknowledge their lasting legacy.”
Applejack operates a range of award-winning venues including Taphouse, Bopp & Tone and Forrester’s and Co-Founders Ben Carroll and Hamish Watts were understandably excited to win the Opera House contract.
“This is a dream come true for our entire team,” the pair said.
“To be entrusted as custodians of venues at the Sydney Opera House – the world’s most iconic cultural stage – is both humbling and inspiring. We can’t wait to share the exciting new concepts we’ve developed for both locals and visitors while honouring this extraordinary location.
“Our gratitude goes to Solotel for their excellent stewardship, and we’re looking forward to building on that foundation with genuine innovation and care.”
The appointment follows a competitive tender process launched in September 2024 under NSW Government procurement guidelines. The new contract will begin in mid-September at Opera Bar, with House Canteen transitioning to new management in mid-November.
Solotel will continue operating both venues until the handover, after which Applejack will take the reins ahead of the peak summer season. Refurbishment works are scheduled to begin in 2026.